Dodge is really serious about steering the Challenger into the front row of the muscle car race in North America with the 2014 Dodge Challenger R/T Shaker. You have to give it to Dodge, as they really know how to connect with their customers, and the new R/T Shaker is a perfect example of that connection. We drove a brand new model for a week and were blown away by so many aspects of this sweet American dream car.

EXTERIOR

The header orange clear coat exterior paint, Shaker graphics and racing stripes are electric attention grabbers wherever you drive this car! For a dynamically striking look, the new Shaker-style Satin Black hood, roof and deck-lid stripe graphics visually translate this Dodge Challenger model’s name, while a Satin Black deck-lid spoiler provides the added downforce needed for 155 mph max-speed runs. For contrast, a body-color grille surround and Gloss Black fuel-filler door were added, while all-new 20 x 8-inch polished-face aluminum wheels with black pockets and a satin matte clear coat feature a sculptured five-spoke design. For added detail, “Shaker” badges flank both sides of the hood scoop, while “HEMI” fender badges and a new “Challenger” grille badge in classic script completes the iconic exterior. Those 20 x 8 inch wheels give an already confident car about as much attitude as you can fit into one car. From just about every angle, the 2014 Dodge Challenger R/T Shaker will draw you in with throwback design that has longevity.

INTERIOR

You can feel your adrenaline pumping from the time you enter the cabin, and with the added Shaker touches, there is no doubt that this car is special. The new Dodge Challenger R/T Shaker features a unique three-spoke, flat-bottom, leather-wrapped performance steering wheel with black accent finish and integrated vehicle controls. Corresponding with the steering wheel is a unique “K-Black” painted instrument panel and center-console bezel for a discrete look. Matching the “Shaker” numbered dash plaque are door bolsters with graduated accent stitching that mirrors the logo’s artistic reverberation.

High-performance front seats with aggressive bolsters in premium Nappa leather in Dark Slate Gray with Sepia accent stitching or Radar Red with Radar Red stitching, feature the “Shaker” logo embroidered on the seat back, along with unique graduated horizontal plow-throughs. For additional detail, the center console armrest is also leather wrapped and finished with accent thread. The aluminum pistol-grip shifter mated to a track-proven Tremec six-speed manual transmission (as tested) is standard, while a black, leather-wrapped shift-knob and die-cast paddle shifters on the back of the steering wheel are available for those who opt for the performance-tuned five-speed automatic. Adding to the customized interior environment, with one press of the start button, the Shaker logo appears on the available 6.5-inch Uconnect touchscreen.

You will appreciate the sheer size and comfort of the “Shaker” logo front seats, as they are wide and firm. Back seat space is adequate and much larger than some direct rivals, while the trunk is large and offers spacing that can make your Challenger an everyday car.

PERFORMANCE

The Dodge brand is known nationally for their HEMI engines, and we were lucky enough to test the 2014 Dodge Challenger R/T Shaker with that nasty HEMI. Injecting a fresh shot of heritage into the Challenger lineup, the new 2014 R/T Shaker model features unique throwback muscle-car cues that link directly to the Dodge brand’s performance legacy. As the model name suggests, the legendary “cold-air grabbing” Shaker not only looks good with its Satin Black center-mounted hood scoop, snorkeling up from the engine compartment, but it also directs cooler air back into the HEMI V-8 engine. And like the original 1970 Challenger R/T with the Shaker hood, the new 2014 model continues the Dodge tradition of an engine-mounted hood scoop that “shakes” with the powertrain’s movement. The growl that is released from the 2014 Dodge Challenger R/T Shaker is like your favorite music imaginable to the ears.

Designed for muscle-car buffs who can’t help but tinker with their toys, the Challenger R/T Shaker features the 5.7-liter HEMI V-8 engine producing over 400 lb.-ft. of torque with a functional Shaker hood with Mopar cold-air intake, conical air filter and optimized air box for improved airflow and performance. Lift the hood and enthusiasts will also be treated to an under-hood “Shaker” badge reminiscent of the 1970s original. In addition to its driver-selectable sport-mode powertrain calibration, performance-tuned suspension, four-wheel disc brakes and steering calibration, the Dodge Challenger R/T Shaker includes the Super Track Pak, with high-performance steering gear, brake linings and monotube shock absorbers, P245/45R20 Goodyear Eagle F1 Super Car three-season tires and three-mode electronic stability control (ESC) with “full off” mode. The 20-inch satin aluminum wheels with black pockets own the road and make a statement like few other wheels can attempt. For those concerned with gas prices, they will be pleasantly surprised with 15 mpg in the city and 23 mpg per gallon in highway driving.

OVERVIEW

For those drivers who are passionate about cars, you can’t help but to fall in love with the 2014 Dodge Challenger R/T Shaker, from the outstanding throwback design, to the power that waits you every morning for that now enjoyable drive to the office or wherever you make your money. What’s also very attractive is the sticker price of $42,075 as tested and loaded from top to bottom. The 2014 Dodge Challenger R/T Shaker also draws attention from folks of all ages, so if you want to stay under the radar on the road, this is not the car for you. American muscle continues her comeback with the stunning 2014 Dodge Challenger R/T Shaker!